And cheaper.

If it was me, even if I had that level of welding skill, I'd find a nice southern truck that is mechanically not in great shape, get the frame from it and sell the rest.

You can usually buy a vehicle at auction, sell the parts you don't need, and actually make some cash. (or break even if you consider the time involved)

This option is especially tempting since the parts for these trucks are slowly disappearing. You end up with a garage full of spares if needed.

Here's a quick search on one auction site I use ....
Many times, the gen 1 dakota auctions end without a bid. You could likely get one for $50->$100.
http://www.salvagebid.com/search/?ev...e=&salesType=*

There's one in texas on that list at this time... one in florida...

As for getting it home. I make a holiday out of it... drive down, hang out, enjoy the sights.
That way, the actual transport back was free-ish.

If you don't have a trailer, you could look for auctions closer to home.